Senator Akobundu Mourns Iwuanyanwu

Senator Austin Akobundu representing Abia Central Senatorial District, has described the demise of Chief Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu as a huge loss to Nigeria. 

In a statement released Saturday by his media office, Akobundu said Chief Iwuanyanwu died at a time Nigeria needed him most as his tireless and patriotic efforts towards achieving a more united, peaceful and progressive Nigeria were already yielding results and needed to be consolidated.

He extolled him as an elder statesman whose commitment to the socioeconomic wellbeing of the people was of utmost priority, hence, he founded business concerns where Nigerians from all walks of life were gainfully engaged.

"As President General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, Chief Iwuanyanwu was already achieving historic feats for the people. His dedication to the Nigeria Project will forever remain indelible in the annals of our history. 

"We have indeed lost an uncommon patriot! I pray God to grant his soul eternal rest and give the family he left behind the fortitude to bear this painful loss," he concluded.

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Labour Party NTC Exposes Abure's Sham Court Victory, Warns of Impending Electoral Disaster

The Labour Party National Transition Committee (NTC) has blown the lid off Julius Abure's so-called court victory, branding it a "sham" and a "fraudulent" attempt to deceive party members and the public. The NTC has warned party aspirants to steer clear of Abure's "dangerous" antics, which could lead to their electoral downfall.

According to the NTC, Abure's court case was a "Nollywood-style" drama staged with his proxy friend, Lawrence Erewele, to secure a favorable judgment from an unsuspecting judge, Justice J.K. Omotosho. The NTC claims that Abure deliberately excluded the Labour Party NTC from the suit to ensure an uncontested victory.

The NTC points out that Justice Omotosho's ruling explicitly stated that the court lacked jurisdiction over the internal party matter and dismissed the case. The NTC argues that this dismissal means the case never had legal standing, rendering Abure's celebration of victory baseless.

The NTC alleges that Abure's motive was to use the court judgment as a cover to conduct lucrative congresses and elections across Nigeria, despite knowing that these exercises would be nullified by the courts, just like in Zamfara and Plateau states.

"Abure's goal is to rake in billions of naira from misguided party aspirants, knowing full well that their participation would be nullified by the courts," said Comrade Abdulwahed Omar, Chairman of the Labour Party NTC. "We urge all party aspirants to avoid Abure's congresses and primaries to avoid the same costly pitfall and fate of Zamfara and Plateau state political aspirants and candidates."

The Labour Party NTC has warned that Abure's actions could lead to a repeat of the Zamfara and Plateau states' experiences, where the courts nullified the elections due to illegal party structures. The NTC has advised party members to be cautious and avoid participating in Abure's congresses and primaries.

The Labour Party NTC then called on party members and aspirants to reject Abure's fraudulent activities and support the NTC's efforts to build a stronger, more inclusive Labour Party.

Agbomhere Cautions Dangote, Eyesan Against Inciting Nigerians to Protest

Ahead of the August 1 planned nationwide protest tagged #End bad governance, the South South Zonal Organising Secretary of the All Progressives Congress (APC) Dr. Blessing Agbomhere has appealed to Nigerians, especially the youth, to jettison the idea of a protest, adding that it would create more problems than it is meant to solve.

 

In a press statement which he released in Port Harcourt, the Rivers state capital on Monday, Agbomhere stated that a protest coming a year into the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu would be the greatest Injustice to a political office holder who has a four year mandate to deliver on his promise of renewed hope to Nigerians in an already battered economy.

 

"When a seed is planted, it has to die first before it germinates, grows, and bears fruit for Harvest. The planting season is the most hectic time in the life of a farmer because that is the season he has to put the seed in the ground in expectation of a bumper harvest ahead. This is exactly the situation in the country with the current administration, which is toiling day and night to ensure that it provides a better life for all Nigerians.

 

"Bringing economic prosperity to Nigeria is never going to be an easy task and that is why it is necessary to give President Tinubu more time, seeing that some of the complaints raised for the protest such as galloping inflation and high fuel price are global phenomena that are not peculiar to Nigeria alone" Agbomhere said.

 

The former governorship aspirant in Edo state also harped on the need for Nigerians to hold their state governors accountable especially those from the Niger Delta region, insisting that the penchant to always lay the blame of maladministration on the government at the centre is like an Ostrich burying it's head in the sand in a bid to hide from danger.

 

Agbomhere also advised all political office holders from the  Niger Delta region such as the Ministers, Lawmakers, Heads of Boards and parastatals to live above board while discharging their duties, as President Tinubu cannot be everywhere at the same time monitoring the affairs of governance; "I'd like to make it clear that we know all those that are instigating this talk of protest, they are individuals who lost elections in the past and rather than waiting for the next election cycle, are going ahead with this devilish attempt at bringing down a democratically elected government. Hopefully, in due time, we will expose all of them.

 

Agbomhere said; "those threatening to burn down Nigeria shall not succeed. We will not allow them to burn down our beloved nation, no one group has a monopoly of violence. At this juncture, I want to make a passionate appeal to Alhaji Aliko Dangote to desist from his recent attacks on the government of President Bola Tinubu. It is a known fact that Nigeria has been fair to Dangote, Nigeria has helped him and he has profited from Nigeria, even at the detriment of other manufacturers, entrepreneurs and the Nigerian buying and consuming public. He must therefore stop forthwith from inciting Nigerians against the Bola Ahmed Tinubu led administration, now.

 

"Going forward, I want to once again warn the Executive Vice President, Upstream of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), Mrs. Oritsemeyiwa Eyesan that her attempt to rubbish the government of Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu through the sponsorship and incitement of opposition parties against the government under which she is serving just because she wants to replace Mele Kolo Kyari, the current Group Chief Executive Officer of the NNPCL is being keenly observed and we assure her that we have taken note and would be applying the necessary sanction soon. The ruling APC can no longer accommodate saboteurs in its government at this time of unprecedented public scrutiny, " Agbomhere concluded.

 

Eliozu Health Programme Disruption: Group Condemns Mr. Chijioke's Malicious Slander

The people of Eliozu town in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, are outraged by the scurrilous allegations made by Mr. Chijioke Ihunwo against the Speaker of the Rivers State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Martin Chike Amaewhule. In a recent interview, Ihunwo brazenly lied about Amaewhule's involvement in disrupting a health program at the Eliozu Health Center, a claim that is utterly false and malicious.

 

The Eliozu Youth Association, CDC Chairman, and CDC Secretary have issued a joint statement vehemently denying the allegations and exposing Ihunwo's true intentions. They revealed that Amaewhule has not visited his hometown in days and did not lead or sponsor anyone to disrupt the health program. Instead, they alleged that Ihunwo, notorious for his thuggish behavior, stormed the community with imported thugs, causing chaos and attempting to use the health center for his political rallies.

Furthermore, the group condemned Ihunwo's previous attacks on Amaewhule's family, including the October 31, 2023, incident where he led thugs to attack Amaewhule's official residence. They also highlighted Ihunwo's threat to "return fire for fire" and his call for the President to sack the IG of police, which they believe is a clear indication of his desperation and willingness to incite violence.

The group has urged the public to disregard Ihunwo's allegations, describing them as "despicable lies" and "a smear campaign" orchestrated by his sponsors. They have also called on security agencies to take Ihunwo's threats seriously, believing he is a danger to peace and stability in the state.

The statement concludes by expressing unwavering support for Amaewhule and his contributions to the constituency and Rivers State, and gratitude to Governor Ezenwo Nyesom Wike for his unwavering support. They also commend the police and security agencies for maintaining peace in the state and country

 

Reducing Gas Flaring: Our Goal is to act, to implement, and to transform - Engr. Woke

Engr. Chukwuemeka Woke

The Director General and Chief Executive of the National Oil Spill Detection and Response Agency (NOSDRA), Engr. Chukwuemeka Woke has underscored the importance of reducing gas flaring in Nigeria, as according to him, “The persistent practice of gas flaring has marred the breathtaking landscape of Nigeria’s abundant natural resources. It serves as a symbol of the missed prospects for harnessing energy, fostering economic growth, and preserving the environment. The well-documented environmental and health ramifications of gas flaring have far-reaching effects, deteriorating air quality, and public health while also aggravating the global climate crisis. Nevertheless, amidst this seemingly insurmountable challenge lies a remarkable opportunity for groundbreaking innovation, meaningful collaboration, and tangible progress.”

 

Engineer Woke stated this during his opening remarks at the third National Extractive Dialogue 2024 (Ned2024) held at Bon Hotel Elvis, 2 Monrovia St, Wuse 2, Wuse, Federal Capital Territory, Abuja, on July 24-25, 2024, with the critical theme: “Gas Flare Reduction: Catalyst for Accelerating Nigeria’s path to Net-Zero Emissions and Sustainable development” adding, “I am reminded of the profound responsibility that rests on our shoulders.”

 

He stated that, “at this critical juncture in history, our nation must take decisive action. The decisions we make and the actions we take in forums like this will unequivocally shape the future of our environment, our economy, and the health and well-being of our people and our communities. Today, we are not simply discussing an environmental issue; we are confronting a fundamental challenge that profoundly impacts our national development and our global commitments.”

 

Excerpt of his remarks read: “In line with global climate change mitigation efforts and the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR Administration’scommitment to end gas flaring, reduce methane emissions and enhance environmental sustainability in the country, the theme of our dialogue underscores the transformative potential of curbing gas flaring. It positions gas flare reduction not just as an environmental necessity but as a catalyst for broader sustainable development and a key driver towards our net-zero emissions goal. By tackling this issue head-on, we can unlock new pathways for energy efficiency, economic diversification, and community resilience which would in turn boost economic growth and job creation in line with Mr. President’s 8-point Agenda.

 

“As the Director General of the National Oil Spill Detection and Response Agency, I am acutely aware of the intricate link between environmental protection and sustainable development. Our agency is dedicated to ensuring that the exploitation of our natural resources does not come at the expense of our environment. The reduction of gas flaring is integral to this mission, aligning with our broader mandate to safeguard the environment from the adverse effects of oil and gas activities.

 

“Today’s dialogue brings together a diverse array of stakeholders-government officials, industry leaders, environmental advocates, and community representatives. Each of you brings valuable perspectives and expertise to this discussion. It is through our collective efforts and shared commitment that we can develop effective strategies and innovative solutions to significantly reduce gas flaring in Nigeria.

 

“I encourage us all to engage openly and constructively, to challenge assumptions, and to explore new ideas. Let us focus on actionable outcomes that can drive real change and progress. Our goal is not just to discuss but to act, to implement, and to transform.

 

“In closing, I want to express my gratitude to our co-organizer, the Nigerian Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative, and the funders of this event, the Ford Foundation through Space4Change, as well as the speakers and participants for your dedication and commitment to this important cause. Together, we can work towards reducing gas flaring and creating a sustainable and prosperous future for Nigeria.

 

“Thank you and I wish us all a productive and inspiring dialogue.”

 

MOSOP Advocates Better Company-Host Community Relations to Curb Conflicts

The Movement for the Survival of the Ogoni People (MOSOP) has called for better relationships between companies and their host communities. MOSOP says this will improve the management of community discontent before they degenerate into conflicts and public protests which sometimes disrupt operations.

President of MOSOP, Fegalo Nsuke who was reacting to the news of protests against companies in recent times especially last week's protest of the Eleme people at the Port Harcourt Refinery said most of what turned out into lockdowns and shutdowns could have been easily resolved through peaceful engagement.

Nsuke said the failure of companies to exploit dialogue opportunities have led to a breakdown of relations between them and communities and caused huge productivity losses. He also advised companies against the orientation that people can be abused and suppressed perpetually with the instruments of state, noting that it gets to a point where it becomes unbearable and the people must act.

"Companies must disabuse the long-held orientation that communities can always be defeated by the force of state. There is always a set time for freedom when all chains of oppression must be broken"

"Dialogue remains our best option and I will encourage corporate organisations to make the best use of peaceful methods to resolve issues rather than allowing them to degenerate into confrontations" Nsuke said. 

He also charged the Ogoni people, especially the youths, to resist violence in the face of provocations, noting that violence has never produced anything good.

"I understand that our society has largely enthroned violence in normal social settings and in government, all in desperation to win elections. However, we must all preach peace and development to address these anomaly"

"The government has a big role to play in addressing these problems. Government must advance and protect the rights of citizens through legislation and ensure that repressive strategies are discouraged because when the people are eventually pushed to the wall, they will fight back and the consequences can be unpredictable"

Recall that last week, the people of Eleme Kingdom in Ogoni, mainly youths, protested at the gates of the Port Harcourt Refinery in Alesa Eleme over neglect and unemployment. 

While the MOSOP president justified the protest against oppression and denial of Rights, he stated that communities should never be tired of rising against injustice. He also called on the state and corporate organisations. 

"When the people realize that they have been cheated and denied their rights, a day must come when they rise to reclaim those tights and no amount of state powers can stop them" Nsuke warned. 

Group Tackles Ikenga’s G-60 Over Unnecessary Interference In Rivers Crisis

…..calls them to order over misinterpretation of valid Court Judgments

The Citizens Action for Good Governance has cautioned G-60 Opposition group for what it described as the group’s meddlesomeness concerning the political crises and the recent Court of Appeal judgment in Rivers State.

The group who made its position known during a press conference today at the Treasure Suites opposite Federal High Court, Central Area Abuja, said, “We, the CITIZENS ACTION FOR GOOD GOVERNANCE, have convened this press conference to address the egregious meddling of the G-60 Opposition Group, led by Honorable Ikenga Ugochinyere, in the Rivers State crisis.”

Text of the press conference reads: “The crisis in Rivers State is an internal matter within the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). Instead of promoting unity and resolving the issue, Honorable Ikenga and his group have chosen to take sides, exacerbating the situation. This raises questions about the true intentions and purpose of the G-60 group. Their actions are not only detrimental to the PDP but also harmful to the overall well-being of the nation.  

 “Furthermore, Honorable Ikenga has been linked to controversies related to militancy and violence in his home state and constituency. It is disappointing that he has not shown the same commitment to addressing insecurity issues in Imo State. His lack of action is a clear indication of his priorities, which seem to be centered around personal gain rather than the welfare of the people.

“The G-60 group has failed to provide meaningful solutions to national issues, instead opting for self-serving press conferences that only serve to promote individual political ambitions. Honorable Ugochinyere's actions, such as creating factional groups and inciting violence, do not serve the interests of the Nigerian people. His behavior is a stark reminder of the dangers of political selfishness and the need for leaders to prioritize the common good.

“We urge Honorable Ikenga Ugochinyere and the G-60 group to cease their divisive actions and work towards fostering unity and progress within the opposition parties. The people of Nigeria deserve leaders who prioritize the common good over personal gain. We demand an end to the meddling in Rivers State's internal affairs and a focus on addressing the pressing issues facing our nation.

“In addition, we are appalled by the G-60 group's occasional outbursts, which demonstrate their disdain for the rule of law and disrespect for the nation's institutions. Their recent misinterpretation of the Court of Appeal's judgment is a glaring example of this. They deliberately distorted the judgment to suit their own narrative, impugning the integrity of the courts in the process. This is an ignoble act and a flagrant disregard for the rule of law. Their actions also show a blatant disrespect for President Tinubu's efforts to broker a peaceful resolution. The Constitution and the judgments of the Court of Appeal and Federal High Court have been clear, yet the G-60 group continues to disregard them.

“We demand an apology from the group for their reckless behavior and demand that they respect the institutions that uphold our democracy. Let us strive for a democracy built on principles of integrity, unity, and good conscience. This is a call to order and a call to serve in the true Nigerian spirit. We must work together to build a brighter future for all Nigerians.

 “The law must prevail over sentimental falsehood as the Rivers State political crisis lingers on. Any further attempts by the Ugochinyere group of g-60 to encourage governor Fubara in disrespecting the Nigerian constitution, president bola Ahmed Tinubu & the judiciary, through incoherent lines of sarcasm, satire, illegal actions and unstructured side-talks, would no longer be tolerated. Enough is enough.”

 

 

 

REA-World Bank Mission Explores Benefits of Energizing Education Programme

....Seek Collaboration On Renewable Energy Opportunities In Borno Ahead of D.A.R.E.S. Roll-Out

 

A high-level delegation from the Rural Electrification Agency (REA) and the World Bank Mission today briefed the Executive Governor of Borno State, Professor Babagana Zulum, on the benefits of the Energizing Education Programme (EEP Phase II) deployed at the University of Maiduguri, to which he expressed gratitude to the top management delegation from the Rural Electrification Agency (REA) and the World Bank for prioritising project sites deployed to Borno State.

 

 

Professor Zulum, represented by the state’s Deputy Governor, Alhaji Umar Usman Kadafur, received the delegation at Government House, Maiduguri. He emphasised the profound impact of renewable energy on citizens who had previously remained without access to electricity and highlighted ways the energy supply has alleviated their hardship. Apparently, the EEP project aligns with the state's commitment to sustainable energy development and ensuring reliable electricity supply.

He also underscored the state's policies to reduce carbon emissions, increase energy access in underserved communities, and foster economic growth through innovative energy solutions. He assured that the state government would prioritise the security of these projects and urged the university to maintain adequate safeguards.

 

 

The Deputy Governor also commended REA's Managing Director/CEO, Abba Abubakar Aliyu, and emphasised the importance of sustaining the collaboration between the World Bank and REA.

 

 

The REA's Managing Director/CEO, Abba Abubakar Aliyu, remarked on the significance of providing electricity to tertiary institutions. He noted that the second phase of the project, funded by the World Bank, aims to provide 12MW of power, benefiting 350,000 students and impacting over 50,000 staff, including non-academic staff. He highlighted the near completion of the Phase II project, which includes seven universities and two teaching hospitals.

 

 

He further stated that this is the World Bank's first visit, and their support has been crucial in making this project a reality. Due to their confidence in the REA's project implementation, the World Bank is providing an additional $750 million for the second phase of the program called the Distributed Access through Renewable Energy Scale-up (DARES).

 

 

Mr. Ashish Khanna, World Bank Practice Manager for West Africa, expressed the World Bank's commitment to the Energizing Education Programme (EEP)  and Nigeria's electrification. He emphasised the project's role in skill-building, job creation, and fostering innovation among students, especially female STEM students.

 

 

Olufemi Akinyelure, Head of the Nigeria Electrification Project, stated, "Our mission is to create a sustainable future for Nigeria’s educational institutions. The EEP Phase II underscores our dedication to leveraging renewable energy solutions to drive academic excellence and gender inclusion in STEM fields."

 

 

The delegation proceeded to the University of Maiduguri for the site inspection of the solar plant, where they were warmly received by the Vice-Chancellor. During the facility tour, Ashish Khanna, Practice Manager at the World Bank, met with 20 female STEM students trained under the program, highlighting the EEP's transformative impact.

 

 

This visit underscores the REA's dedication to advancing renewable energy solutions with a skilled and empowered workforce.

 

 

ABOUT THE RURAL ELECTRIFICATION AGENCY

The Rural Electrification Agency (REA) is the Implementing Agency of the Federal Government of Nigeria (FGN) under the Federal Ministry of Power. It is tasked with electrifying unserved and underserved communities to catalyse economic growth and improve the quality of life for Nigerians. The Agency was established under part IX, Sections 88-89 of the Electric Power Sector Reform Act (EPSRA), 2005.

 

 

The REA is currently implementing the Rural Electrification Fund (REF), Capital Projects, Nigeria Electrification Project (NEP), Solar Power Naija (SPN), Energizing Education Programme (EEP), Energizing Economies Initiative (EEI), Energizing Agriculture Programme (EAP), Energy for All – Mass Rural Electrification and Research and Innovation Hub, Africa Mini-Grids Programme, Derisking Sustainable Off-Grid Lighting Solutions, and the Korean Energy Project.

 

 

The Agency is responsible for creating an enabling environment for private sector-led projects, which includes conducting feasibility assessments, energy audits, enumeration, data analysis, identification of qualified private sector developers, and project stakeholder engagements.

 

 

ABOUT ENERGIZING EDUCATION PROGRAMME (EEP PHASE II)

The Energizing Education Programme (EEP) is an initiative of the Federal Government of Nigeria (FGN) implemented by the REA to deliver dedicated captive solar hybrid power systems to 37 Federal Universities and 7 University Teaching Hospitals nationwide. Phase I of the EEP has already been implemented, and Phase II, funded by the World Bank and nearing completion, will extend these benefits to additional institutions.

 

Phase II of the EEP will see the provision of solar hybrid power systems to 7 Federal Universities, namely:

1.      University of Calabar & Teaching Hospital;

2.      University of Abuja;

3.      Nigerian Defence Academy;

4.      Michael Okpara University of Agriculture, Umudike, Abia state;

5.      Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta;

6.      Federal University Gashua, Yobe;

7.      University of Maiduguri, Borno state;

and 2 associated University Teaching Hospitals across Nigeria’s six geo-political zones.

 

This phase includes the installation of streetlights for improved security, the construction of a world-class renewable energy workshop and training center, and the upgrade of existing distribution infrastructure. Furthermore, the REA promotes gender inclusion by training twenty female STEM students from each beneficiary institution in solar PV system design and construction through the EEP STEM Internship Programme.

Change of Baton at Rotary of Port Harcourt ECO as Rtn Ikpor Bows out in Style

 

It was pomp and excitement as the outgoing President, Rotary club of Port Harcourt ECO Rtn Dr Anthony Ikpor handed over the mantle of leadership to Dr  Bieye Renner Briggs.

 

The annual handover ceremony of the club in Port Harcourt, the Rivers state capital last week marked the transition of power from Rtn Dr Anthony Ikpor, a bank executive, management consultant, environmental activist and sports enthusiast to the incoming president Rtn Dr Bieye Renner Briggs.

 

The event our correspondent reports, was a stock taking one, as the club x-rayed its achievements for the past one year and a time to reflect on the future of the incoming Rotary year.

 

The outgoing President, Rtn Dr Anthony Ikpor who in his farewell address, has applauded the members of the club for their unalloyed support, encouragement and commitment also thanked them for the love, collaboration and robust synergy that existed during his tenure insisting that such should be extended to his successor.

 

Highlighting some the club's achievements, during his tenure, Ikpor said "Rotary club of Port Harcourt ECO is happy to pride itself as one of the vibrate Rotary clubs in Port Harcourt in particular and Nigeria in general as Rotary club of Port Harcourt ECO is the second Eco club in Africa and the first in West Africa and has attended level Two-Donor status within the short period of its existence”

 

He added that the club which started in the year 2020 and chartered in February 11, 2021 has embarked on numerous programmes during the tenures of the charter president Rtn Dr Emem Okon and Rtn Davis Okarevu respectively.

 

Ikpor, emphasized that the club which its core mandate is environmental protection and advocacy has

planted over 5, 000 trees, in its tree planting campaign in Port Harcourt. Continuing, he said  in December 2023, four indigent students in the tertiary institutions were awarded scholarships   to  support them in their studies, even as  he added that a visitation program was also carried out at  Port Harcourt prisons, which also featured distribution of relief and sanitary materials to the inmates, Others  according to him included Training of over 50 youths in wastes/plastic recycling as well as other programs that had direct impact on the environment and the people such as Environmental sanitation, health awareness campaign at Umuoye Etche, in Etche Local Government Area and Elelenwo in Obio Akpor LGA Rivers state where over 200 persons benefited, within the year under review.

 

He thanked the Charter (founding) President of the Club, the immediate past president, the incoming President, and the entire members of the Club for the massive support and goodwill given to him throughout his tenure, without which the club would not have achieved the much it did under his leadership.

 

He solicited for extension of the same goodwill and support for the incoming administration.

 

On his part, the incoming President, Dr. Bieye Renner Briggs,  expressed his delight at the opportunity given to him to serve as the president for the incoming year and expressed optimism that it would be a successful one. He promised to build on the legacies of the outgoing president and his other predecessors to move the Rotary Club of Port Harcourt Eco to greater and enviable heights, while appealing for support from every member to achieve the Club's vision.

 

Highlights of the event included the handover ceremony and presentation of the staff of office, symbolizing the transfer of leadership to the new President, as well as presentation of gifts to the outgoing president for his service and contributions.

 

The handover event was a resounding success, marking a new chapter in the club's history. Members left inspired and motivated to continue serving the community through the Rotary Club of Port Harcourt Eco, under the leadership of the new President, Dr. Briggs.

 

The Rotary year begins on the 1st day of July of every year, and terminates on the 30th of June of the following year. The beginning of every Rotary year is marked by handover of leadership by the previous leadership to a new administration.

 

The Rotary Club of Port Harcourt Eco is a course-based Rotary club with specific focus on the environment. The club was incorporated in January 2021, where Dr. Emem Okon served as its Charter(founding) President.

 

Present at the event, include Rtn Dr Emem Okon, Charter president, Rotary club of Port Harcourt ECO, Rtn Inuro Wills, President Elect, 2025/2026, Rotary club of Port Harcourt ECO, Rtn Alhaji A. Shittu, immediate past president, of Rotary club Port Harcourt Express among others.

 

Written By Bon Peters,

Port Harcourt, Rivers State

 

Customs Area 11, Command Onne Intercepts 884, Rifles, 112,500 Live Ammunition, Others, Worth Over N 13 Billion

This was disclosed by the Comptroller General of Customs BA Adeniyi MFR while addressing Journalists at Onne, Rivers state, Monday.

Speaking further, Adeniyi said that the container "based on a number of risk factors, became a subject of interest insisting that Customs had followed its sail across the Continents, and had benefited immensely from credible information produced through its collaboration with the intelligence communities, both at the local, national and international levels.  

He added "Working within our local structures, we followed diligently as the Importer attempted to circumvent our procedure through the outlet of a Private Bonded Terminal.  Consequently, on Friday, 21 June 2024, the suspicious container was subjected to thorough physical examination. The examination result revealed the following alarming Content, Eight Hundred and Forty-Four (844) units of rifles One Hundred and Twelve Thousand, Five Hundred (112,500) pieces of live ammunition.

"These items were concealed among doors, furniture, plumbing fittings, and leather bags, with a total duty-paid value of ₦4,171,710,000.00.” he said

Adeniyi noted that “This interception underscores our commitment to national security and public

safety" Even as he said that Customs would remain vigilant and committed to their duty,he disclosed that Three suspects have been detained in connection with the seizure, stating that a thorough investigation was underway to ensure all involved face legal consequences.

Speaking further, he said “Additionally, on June 29, 2024, Customs officers intercepted eight 40-foot containers destined for a bonded warehouse from Onne Port. These containers contained 1,050,000 bottles of CSC Cough Syrup with Codeine, 3,500,000 tablets of Trodol Benzhexol, and 720 bales of used clothes with the duty-paid value of ₦13,915,710,000.00.”

He reiterated that these seizures were achieved through Customs   robust Risk Management System and collaboration with intelligence communities both locally and internationally.

According to him, the container bearing the arms and ammunition would be handed over to the National Centre for the Control of Small Arms and Light Weapons for further investigation and prosecution. While insisting that, “Licenses and permits of warehouses and terminals involved have been suspended, and officers found complicit will face severe sanctions.”

The Comptroller General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi, commended the Customs Area Comptroller Onne Port, Mohammed Babandede, his officers and men for their professionalism, diligence and commitment to duty, promising a reward system for those that have done well, even as he also applauded the crucial role and assistance from local and international partners as well as other government agencies.

The Comptroller General of Customs however, warned that this seizure would serve as a strong warning to others contemplating similar misadventures. Promising to run them out of business "We will run you out of business" He insisted.

Present at the occasion, include representatives from the Office of the National Security Adviser. Others

were National Center for the Control of Small Arms and Light Weapons, NAFDAC , NDLEA, Nigerian, Ports Authority,NPA Onne Ports Complex, Shipping Companies,Terminal operators,, ANLCA NAGAFF, operators of Customs Bonded Terminals,  Nigerian Army, Navy, Nigeria police, Nigerian Airforce among others.

Written By Bon Peters,

Port Harcourt, Rivers State